Perry>>Pirates

Just the facts

School: Perry

Conference: CVC Chagrin OHSAA: Division IV, Region 13 Coach: Bob Gecewich, first year 2020: 5-2

Twitter: @Perry_Pirates

Home field: Alumni Stadium

Outlook

The Pirates welcome in the Bob Gecewich era after the retirement of former Coach Matt Rosati. The Pirates have had a good camp as far as adapting to the new system and the expectations set before them by their new coach. There’s a lot of competition for positions and many will play early on as spots are up for grabs, especially at QB, where Brayden Richards and freshman Walter Moses will play. Javin Richards is a field-stretching receiver and a very good safety. Perry has good depth at running back, too. The question is up front where the Pirates have good size and strength, but they’re low on numbers in the trenches. Defensively, the Pirates want to be fast and aggressive. Senior Jadynn Anderson, in the mix for carries on offense, is a disruptive force at defensive end. If the defensive line depth holds up, the back end is athletic and opportunistic. The Pirates have a very good kicker in Calvin Rowan, which can be a difference-maker in tight games this season.

Player to watch

Javin Richards is a familiar name as a state champion in the pole vault and 300 hurdles. He is an impact player on both sides of the ball here as a home runhitting receiver on offense and a safety who isn’t afraid to stick his nose in the box on defense. Underclassman to watch: Jaden Studio is a 6-foot-1, 213-pound running back. He’s only a sophomore, but he runs with power and authority, almost to the point that he is looking for someone to run over. He could be in for a big year for the Pirates. Bottom line

IF: the Pirates can stay healthy and productive on the offensive and defensive lines. THEN: there is plenty of skill and speed for Perry to drive the opposition crazy.

— John Kampf

J. Richards